The Royals were informed of White's passing by his son, Joe. White died in hospice one day after the team announced his retirement after 40 years working for the organization.

White was the sports anchor for Topeka's WIBW-TV and broadcast Kansas State athletics before joining the Royals in 1973. He would work with Denny Matthews as their primary broadcasting through the 2008 season, when the team was well into its lengthy decline.

Over those 25 years, though, White helped call six division championships, an American League pennant in 1980 and the Royals' only World Series championship in 1985.

White also broadcast basketball games for ESPN and other networks. Upon leaving the broadcast booth, he headed up the Royals Radio Network and supervised the Royals Alumni, assisting with clinics, appearances and the team's fantasy camp._________________________________________________The Royals released the following statement:

The Kansas City Royals are deeply saddened today to announce the passing of Fred White due to complications from melanoma. White, who spent 40 seasons in the Royals’ organization as an announcer, Director of Broadcast Services and the Royals Alumni, passed away earlier today in hospice care.

There are no details at this time regarding funeral arrangements.

___________________________________________________

Retirement story from Tuesday:

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) _ Kansas City Royals veteran Fred White announced his retirement Tuesday after 40 years with the organization, most recently as director of broadcast services and the franchise's alumni.

White was a sports anchor at a Topeka, Kan., television station and the voice of Kansas State athletics before joining the Royals, where he spent 25 years in the broadcast booth. He continued to do Big 12 basketball games while also working for ESPN and others.

Upon leaving the broadcast booth, White headed up the Royals Radio Network and supervised the Royals Alumni, assisting with clinics, appearances and the team's fantasy camp.

In a statement issued by the team, White said he was retiring due to recent health issues.